The durian season in Penang begins in mid-May and lasts until early August.

Instead of focusing on traditional markets like ASEAN member countries and China, the state plans to target new international markets, particularly India and the Middle East, Named news agency quoted Wong Hon Wai, chairman of its Tourism and Creative Economy Committee, as saying.

This is supported by the availability of direct flights from India and the Middle East to Penang, which will help bring more tourists to the state during the durian season.

Indian carrier Indigo launched direct flights between Chennai and Penang last year, while Qatar Airways also operates direct flights to Penang.

Wong said this year’s durian output may be lower due to unseasonable rains but expressed the hope its prices would remain affordable.

Penang, particularly its town of Balik Pulau, is home to durian orchards that produce some of the finest varieties like black thorn, musang king and ang heh (red prawn).